1. Attend a local FEAT support group. Early Intervention is critical. You will need to start an early intervention behavior program using ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) as soon as possible. Contact ABA providers under Treatment Resources in our site. Contact many as soon as possible as there as usually waiting lists.
2. Get a copy of and read "Best Practices for Designing and Delivering Effective Programs for Individuals with Autistic Spectrum Disorders". You can find this online at http://www.ddhealthinfo.org/documents/ASD_Best_Practice.pdf
3. Get a copy at no charge and read the Lanterman Act from the Department of Developmental Services by calling (916) 654-1690.
4. Make an appointment to see your child's pediatrician and then ask for a referral to a developmental pedicatrician who can diagnois your child and allow you access to services for help. Your general pedicatrician may perform a preliminary test on your child called an M-CHAT which tests for certain milestones and is the first step towards diagnosing a child with autism. Note: it can take months to get an appointment with a developmental pedicatrican so please make the referral asap.
5. A pediatric developmental pediatrican will evaluate your child using a series of tests. This is a test called the DSM-IV. Once complete a diagnosis can be made. Your child may be diagnosed with a series of disorders that fall under the autism spectrum; Autism (different functioning levels), Aspergers Syndrome, PDD-NOS.
6. Contact your local regional center, NorthBay Regional Center, who will begin the intake process in order to classify your child as a consumer for regional center services. For more information, check under Funding Resources on our site.
7. Contact your local school district special education department and begin the process of intake for your child to also receive funding from your school district. For more information, check under Funding Resources on our site.
8. Once your child is a consumer of the regional center, they will hold an IFSP or IPP meeting with you. An IFSP (Individualized Family Service Plan) or an IPP (Individual Program Plan) if your child is over 3 years old, is a meeting where services for your child are determined. You may need an advocate or attorney present to assist in obtaining the approprite services for your child.
9. Your local school district will hold an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) meeting with you to determine the appropriate services for your child. You may need an advocate or attorney present to assist in obtaining the approprite services for your child.
* IEP, IFSP and IPP are legally binding contracts and are usually reviewed annually. Please remember to audio record all meetings, keep tedious notes, prepare well.
* Regional centers and school districts hold a legal responsibility to fund and provide appropriate services for children with developmental disabilities. You are your childs strongest advoate but you may need to retain the help of an advocate or attorney to assist you in retaining the appropriate services for your childs unique needs. Please look under the Resources link.
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